Press release

Cuba's Quintana: To win against the Russian team, this means a lot.

Russia's Moroz attacked well, but Cuba were just a bit better on Sunday

Hamamatsu, Japan, May 20, 2012 - Press Conference, Cuba vs Russia - Cuba upset defending World League champions Russia on Sunday in a five-set marathon, with Russia's fatigue after two five set matches in preceding days evident to all. Russia coach Busato complimented Cuba’s young stars, particularly Leon and Hernandez on their serving.

Russia captain Konstantin Ushakov: “I would like congratulate the Cuba team. The last three days we have has five-set matches, and that has been difficult for us. There were things we did today which we shouldn’t have done, and there are some things we need to improve. But we didn’t give up, and in that respect I’m proud of the team.”

Russia coach Sergio Busato: "Today Cuba had a very good serve, because out of 15 serves only there were only three mistakes for star players Leon and Hernandez. That is optimal for Cuba because [it hurts] Russian’s first line of reception. Our spikers had difficulty with the very good Cuban block. Many compliments for Leon and Hernandez, they had a very good serve today."

Cuba captain Wilfredo Leon Venero: “Today was a hard game, and we really wanted to win — and we did, so that means a lot to us. But it was really hard. We could win two games [here in Hamamatsu] and today’s win was even better than yesterday’s.”

Cuba player Danger Jorber Quintana Guerra: “Today’s match means a lot. In the last two games I didn’t play. But today I could and my mission was to block and attack and I did that. To win against the Russian team, this means a lot.”

Cuba coach Orlando Samuells Blackwood: "Thanks to the Russia coach for his congratulations. We had three matches here in Hamamatsu, and each day our team improved their play. Today was best match of all especially with few errors in serve, that was good. Some regular players were missing from the Russian team though, but the team is very, very good. I would like to keep up our level of play, stay consistent and keep contending. We still have issues but I’m happy with our result today."

On Quintana playing today: "His block was very good and was better than David Fiel Rodriguez. He is just 18 years old and has lots of potential to improve further."

On Leon’s progress as captain: "Yes he is playing as a captain. Of course there are some issues, as he needs to train a little more to improve physically, and his play needs to be more stable, but he is doing well."